Firebirds Sign 2024 U-18 Draft Pick

Rowan McCarthy

Mar 21, 2025

Partner

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Rowan McCarthy

Mar 21, 2025

Partner

Josh Bonnyman playing for Ajax/Pickering the year Flint took him in the U-18 draft [Josh Hickling/OHL Images].

Earlier today, the Flint Firebirds announced the signing of 2024 U-18 OHL Priority Draft selection Josh Bonnyman to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

The Firebirds selected Bonnyman in the second round of the 2024 U-18 draft after he scored 29 points in 35 games playing for the Ajax/Pickering Raiders.

"We like the fact Josh plays the right way," said Head Scout Mike Oliverio. "Josh brings a good hockey IQ that he uses to play with some physicality and edge that fits the Firebirds' identity."

Yesterday, Ottawa 67's overage goaltender Collin Mackenzie announced his commitment to play NCAA hockey for the Rochester Institute of Technology next season.

thehockeynews.comHow Self Advocacy Brought Collin Mackenzie An NCAA CommitmentYesterday, Ottawa 67's overage goaltender Collin Mackenzie announced his commitment to play NCAA hockey for the Rochester Institute of Technology next season.

Born in Uxbridge, Ont. Bonnyman is a 2007-born forward who currently plays for the Stouffville Spirit of the OJHL. In 50 games this season he's scored 16 goals and added 23 assists for a total of 39 points.

While his regular season totals are impressive, Bonnyman has found a new gear during the OJHL playoffs. He played a huge role in Stouffville's first-round sweep of the Wellington Dukes and is tied for first in scoring on the team. In four games, he's scored two goals and added four assists.

The future is bright for Owen Sound Attack forward Pierce Mbuyi, who set a franchise record on Friday night for most points scored by a rookie.

thehockeynews.comPierce Mbuyi Sets Owen Sound Attack Record For Rookie PointsThe future is bright for Owen Sound Attack forward Pierce Mbuyi, who set a franchise record on Friday night for most points scored by a rookie. 

At six-foot, Bonnyman is certainly no giant, but he isn't on the small side either. A year of experience playing against men in the OJHL will undoubtedly help him adjust to the OHL in the coming years.

"I'm excited and honored to be joining the Flint Firebirds organization," said Bonnyman. "I have heard and experienced nothing but great things and I'm beyond thankful to be given this opportunity."

The Firebirds find themselves in a heated race for the remaining playoff spots in the Western Conference. With three games remaining in their season, they sit sixth three points ahead of Sault Ste. Marie.

They will have the opportunity to clinch a playoff spot on Friday when they faceoff against the Sarnia Sting in what will be a critical game for both sides.